About the Species
The Xihu
Sentinel of Our Rivers
The Xihu, scientifically known as Platanista Gangetica, is one of the world’s rarest freshwater dolphins and a flagship species for river health. It holds deep cultural significance in the rivers of Northeast India, especially the Siang in Arunachal Pradesh and the Brahmaputra in Assam.
The Xihu is India’s National Aquatic Animal and Assam’s State Aquatic Animal. Saving the Xihu works to reverse its decline through grassroots awareness, community engagement, and advocacy.
Key Facts
Status
Endangered (IUCN Red List). Populations in the Brahmaputra system have declined significantly.
Physical Features
Nearly blind, they use advanced echolocation to navigate murky waters and hunt. They often swim sideways, probing the riverbed with their flippers. Adults grow to 7–8.9 feet (2.1–2.7 m) and weigh 150–170 kg.
Habitat
Found only in freshwater rivers of the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna system. They prefer deep pools, confluences, and meandering stretches rich in fish.
Ecological Importance
As top predators and indicator species, their presence signals a healthy river ecosystem with abundant fish and clean water.
Cultural Connection
Known as Xihu (or Sihu/Shihu) in Assam. Elders remember frequent sightings in their youth; today, many younger people have never seen one. Communities in Arunachal Pradesh have their own traditional names and stories connected to the species.
Major Threats
Pollution from urban, industrial, and agricultural waste
Habitat fragmentation caused by dams, barrages, and altered river flows
Accidental entanglement in fishing nets (bycatch)
Boat traffic, sand mining, and unsustainable fishing
Climate change impacts on river hydrology